Despite comments and rumours to the contrary, the released list was not the mass cull that had been predicted in certain quarters with one of the quietest released list days in recent years. New contracts have been offered to Tom Kennedy and Chris Dagnall, though it is widely expected that both will be moving on to pastures new, with Doncaster amongst the suitors for TK.

Other players receiving offers of a new contract are Joey Thompson, Nathan Stanton, Scott Wiseman, Rory McArdle and Matty Edwards. In addition to this, the club have taken up a clause in Marcus Holness's contract to retain his services for a further twelve months.

Of those released, it's arguable that the biggest surprise is the release of Kallum Higginbotham. His time at Spotland has certainly had its up and downs after initially bursting into the first team, but a disappointing second season saw him transfer listed. There was much more from him during this promotion season, including the goal of the season at Accrington, but it was not enough to convince the management that he was worth a new contract.

Ciaron Toner is another player to be released by Dale. Toner was one of those players who came to Spotland on the back of less than favourable references from supporters at his previous club, only to shove them right down their throats. Despite an injury hit second season, he proved himself to be a more than capable squad player, and whilst he never quite made himself a regular in the starting line up, he never let anyone down.

Michael Lea was also released by Dale having never played a game. He was brought in as cover for Tom Kennedy for the final few games of the season, but he didn't even manage a spot on the bench as far as I am aware.

Goalkeeper Kenny Arthur has been transfer listed with twelve months remaining on his contract.

Photo: Action Images

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